“Today, the Senate had an opportunity to save lives and send a clear message: transgender people should not be used as political pawns and objectives. Constituents put their trust in lawmakers to make conscious decisions regarding access to healthcare. Yet both chambers of Congress have displayed an indifference and unconcern for the livelihood of our service members and the transgender community.
Our service members put their lives on the line daily to protect, serve, and represent America. Service is more than a job; it’s a commitment to our country and the diverse citizens we live with. We vehemently disagree with the passing of the NDAA with its current anti-LGBTQ and anti-DEI provisions and have urged elected officials to oppose it. Lawmakers should focus on investing in the health and well-being of those who serve, not confidential medical decisions.
The fight to protect trans lives and their right to equitable healthcare will continue as we anticipate the actions of the 119th U.S. Congress. No matter who is leading our country, the work is never finished until we secure safety, security, and liberation for our people.
For the last two weeks, we have been sounding the alarm on the anti-trans repercussions that the NDAA bill potentially has for our communities. The NDAA’s passage foreshadows an American society that endangers and eliminates protections for our queer communities.
President Biden must hold the line for LGBTQ lives by vetoing this bill and demanding that Congress remove all discriminatory language.”
– Kierra Johnson, President of the National LGBTQ Task Force
